Davis Stampede 10k

Last weekend was a difficult weekend. It started with Friday. We had a lot of errands to run and the time it came to our last errand (grocery shopping), we were too hungry and didn't have any energy. We decided not to go that day. We had more errands to do the next day anyways. 

So Saturday (day before Super Bowl Sunday), we went to the store. There were only 3 parking spots left (I did count). I couldn't handle going (plus, I didn't feel well that day). I decided I could stay awake until midnight and go then (this store is open 24 hours). About 11:30, Jason decided to take a shower (so we could go straight to sleep, after we put the groceries away). That's when all hell broke lose...

All of our sewer pipes decided to back up. After waiting for the plumber to arrive and snake the drain (which the pipe was hidden and we had to break some stuff in order to find it), we were able to get about 2 1/2 hours of sleep that night. 

I got up bright and early (still dark out=can't wait for the time change and it gets brighter early and late) for the Davis Stampede and arrived at the start to pick up my packet. Of course, it was so crowded and busy. Everyone had so much energy and were so happy to be there. I was tired and just wanted to get this done.

When I lined up, I started getting more excited and happy to be there. I told Jason I wasn't sure what time time was, but I was guessing about 1:10.

After a wonderful 6.2 miles later (best run I've had in months), I spotted Jason (near the finish line) and 1:09 (according to my garmin).

Jason was super sleepy too, so the photos aren't that great.

I crossed that line with the biggest smile and enjoyed every 4,140 seconds. Lately, my runs have been slow and sluggish (not great when my next half is in March). 

After checking my official time, I found I finished 1 minute earlier than I thought. Official time: 1:08:21. I'm so glad I had this man to run to. He inspires me to succeed and finish faster. 

How's your 2013 race calendar going? I have 2 more races on the schedule (March=half and Aug=5k color run)

Running Punch

Last night, I had 11.5 miles on my schedule. In the beginning of the day, I was really excited. I couldn't wait for this run! As it got closer, I wasn't looking forward to it.When it came time for me to change into my gym clothes, I didn't want to go. I was trying to find any reason not to do it. I couldn't come up with anything that would be a good enough excuse (especially with my half marathon just over a month away). I needed to run this. 

I got changed, drove into the gym parking lot and got front row parking (which never happens, especially if it's raining, like last night). That was a good sign. I walked into the cardio area and my favorite treadmill was open (at the end with a fan directly above it, it's always taken). Another good sign. I put my things down, warmed up and started in. 

For about miles 6-8, I had this 20 something guy next to me (running, not just standing there) and while he was running, he would punch the air, really, really high. It was almost above his head. I've never seen anyone do that before. 

After some time had past, I looked down at the information displaying on the treadmill and it looks like I accidentally ran 12 miles (instead of 11.5). I guess I was really enjoying my long run! I hope that happens on race day. 

When I home, I just wanted to rinse the salt off my face and shoulders. I started the shower and shed my clothes. Here's my outer skin. 

Immediately after I got dried off, the first thing I put on were my compression socks. You  better believe I put on my lime green compression socks under my pj's. It's a must do after my long runs!

I have a pretty busy next few weeks. Every Saturday, I have a run date with my friend and we hang out afterwards. On Sunday, Jason and I are going on a day date, which should be fun! The first weekend in Feb, I have my first race of the year, a 10k. the following weekend is my second race, a 5k with my friend. And, finally, the first weekend in March is my first half marathon of the year. I'm also doing the Color Run 5k this year, again. 

Do you do the running punch (inside or outside the gym)? How far do you have to run before you put on your compression socks? What's your race calender look like?